At Family Engagement Lab, we believe that teachers are an essential bridge between schools and families, helping unlock every student's potential through strong family partnerships. As we prepare to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5-9), we're thrilled to honor the incredible role teachers play in accelerating student learning through high-impact family engagement.
In this month's Learning Series, we’re sharing ways to recognize teacher impact, spotlighting an exciting new opportunity to preview our latest AI-driven innovation, and highlighting where you can connect with us this spring.
With gratitude,
Vidya Sundaram and Elisabeth O'Bryon
Family Engagement Lab Co-Founders
What we're learning
Over the past six months, we’ve listened closely to more than 100 teachers and families through interviews and focus groups. Their insights made it clear:
Teachers need efficient ways to differentiate support for students, spark productive conversations with families about learning challenges, and align home activities with their curriculum — all without adding to their already full plates.
Families want personalized at-home learning activities in their preferred language, guidance that builds their confidence in supporting learning, and opportunities to meaningfully partner with teachers.
We’re excited to announce that our new, AI-driven FASTalk prototype is ready for testing — built directly in response to what teachers and families told us they need most!
🌟 Get free, early access!
Open to K-8 teachers and families in Title 1 schools
Quick setup and easy onboarding
Participants will directly shape the final design of the tool
Help us create the future of family engagement — your voice matters!
What we're sharing
Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week: May 5–9, 2025
Join the National PTA in honoring the incredible educators who ignite curiosity and inspire learning every day. TheirTeacher Appreciation Week 2025 resource hub offers ideas, templates, and activities to help families and communities show their gratitude.
The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)’s Joint Conference for Elementary Literacy and Mathematics
June 16-18, Chicago, IL
Vidya and Elisabeth will be presenting on June 17 (4:15-5:30pm) about how families can serve as a powerful lever for accelerating student success in mathematics.
